Psychoanalysis and the Wisdom of Ecclesiastes looks at one of the most profound books in the Hebrew Bible – Ecclesiastes, known as Koheleth in Hebrew – through a psychoanalytic lens.
Paul Marcus explores Ecclesiastes’ understanding of the profound and compelling problematics of the human condition and explains how he offers a sensible and feasible attitude toward contemporary life. Comparing Ecclesiastes’ way of looking at life to the Freudian worldview, Marcus suggests what psychoanalysis might in part appropriate or further explore and develop as it tries to enhance itself as a narrative of the human condition and a compelling “technology of the self.” The book also uses psychoanalysis to illuminate aspects of Ecclesiastes that have been underappreciated and undercomprehended.
Psychoanalysis and the Wisdom of Ecclesiastes will be of interest to psychoanalysts exploring spirituality and the human condition, and to academics and students of psychoanalytic studies, religious studies, Judaic studies, and philosophy.
Table of Contents:
1. Introduction: A Time to Heal
2. Koheleth’s General Worldview
3. Summary of Ecclesiastes
4. The Futility of Wisdom
5. The Futility of Hedonism
6. The Futility of Work
7. The Futility of Love
8. Implications for Psychoanalysis
About the Author :
Paul Marcus is a training and supervisory analyst at the National Psychological Association for Psychoanalysis in New York City and co-chairperson of the discussion group Psychoanalysis and Spirituality at the American Psychoanalytic Association. He is the author/editor of 25 books including The Spiritual Resistance of Rabbi Leo Baeck: Psychoanalysis and Religion (Routledge). He is currently the editor of Psychoanalytic Review.
Review :
“Paul Marcus brings Ecclesiastes and psychoanalysis together in mutually fruitful ways. He brings out a "double structure" in Ecclesiastes characterized by profound ambivalence and ambiguity that creatively interacts with psychoanalysis in co-nourishing ways. Whether it is the psychology of wisdom, hedonism, work or love, Marcus opens significant experiential possibilities that add to our sense of being, inviting deep study and amplification.” - Michael Eigen, Ph.D., Author, Contact with the Depths, Faith, and Kabbalah and Psychoanalysis
“This original study takes the reader through the book of Ecclesiastes, revealing its conceptual framework and probing its reflections on human existence. Throughout, Marcus brings to bear his unique psychoanalytical perspective, enabling him to suggest new approaches to understanding this important biblical book.” - Lawrence H. Schiffman, Global Distinguished Professor of Hebrew and Judaic Studies, New York University
